I do have a remote start but unplugged it right at the control box. I think this will turn into a winter project. I bought a cheap gen set to keep us going but can already tell it runs warmer than what I'd like it to in my former A/C conderser compartment

It is a starting problem right now, not a gen problem. Very obvious if the starter fuse is blowing. Something is shorted out. Starter circuits are not that complicated so you can sort this out by the process of elimination.

How your dealer diagnosed a gen problem without starting the engine is a mystery?

It sounds as if the worst thing would be needing a new starter and there are a few much less expensive possibilities in the starting circuit.

EVs use separate starting batteries. I use both bus and house batteries, either will work because it is a small engine.

This is an excellent set and will probably outlast the cheapo substitute. Unless it has very high time it is well worth repairing.